MINISTER: Reverend Eric Lee
Eric was born in Hong Kong and raised there during the British colonial era. He attended a Christian elementary school, and attributes those early years with laying a solid foundation for his spiritual growth as a Christian in later years. Eric is one of those people who can pinpoint the moment when he received Christ as his personal Saviour, a moment that changed his life permanently. His profile eloquently describes his journey of faith from his school days, through his post-secondary education, his years in the investment banking industry, his decision with his wife Iris to immigrate to Canada seven years ago, and his acceptance of the new path God opened for him as he put his trust in the Lord, let go of his financial career, and pursued theological studies in Canada.
Eric speaks fluent English, Cantonese, Mandarin, and Japanese. His theological studies also provided him with some knowledge of Hebrew and Greek. His passions are the outdoors, animals, nature, marathon running, and alpine skiing. He and his wife Iris (a medical research specialist) do not have children, but the dog lovers among us will be interested to know that they have a “big dog”.
Eric holds a BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration) and a Master of Arts in Japanese Studies for the Professions, both obtained in Hong Kong. He graduated with a Master of Divinity from Knox College in Toronto in 2018 and has a Diploma in Theology. Since 2019 he has been a Presbyterian Church in Canada Certified Candidate for Ordination. He is a Canadian citizen.
Eric is a “second career” Pastor (a circumstance which has served us well in the past). His work with the banking industry in Hong Kong (2005-2015) included financial counselling and investment advising.
Eric was very involved with his church in Hong Kong, serving at various times as Care Group Leader, Worship Team Coordinator, and Prison Ministry Leader. Since his arrival in Canada he has been focussed on his studies at Knox and has been a Student Pastor at St. Giles Kingsway, serving as a teacher at Vacation Bible School and Pastoral Care Secondee. He has taken part in several mission trips to various countries.
Since 2019, he has been employed as a stated supply pastor and preacher at Bonar-Parkdale Presbyterian Church and has had multiple supply pulpit experiences at various Presbyterian churches in the GTA. This has provided him with several years of practical experience planning and leading worship.
Music Director: Boris Treivus
Boris Treivus was born in St. Petersburg, where he received his professional music education. In Canada he graduated from the University of Toronto Drama Program.
Boris plays piano, organ, accordion, conducts choir and in the past 20 years he has been working as a Music Director in several churches, which include Willowdale Presbyterian Church, The Anglican Church of the Atonement, St.Luke’s United Church, where he also organized and led Jazz Vesper services.
In addition, he worked as a Drama Minister at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran church staging Willowcreek short drama series. He has written plays, directed theatre productions and received the best playwright award from the UofT Drama Festival.
Boris has been playing piano for various ballet companies and dance schools. Since 2002 he’s a pianist at Canada National Ballet School.
Boris has also played in jazz bands, an original Argentinian Tango quartet “Bandonoir” and Toronto Mandolin Orchestra.
In the past few years Boris has also been an accompanist and assistant conductor of Miles Nadal JCC choir.
He’s delighted to be a new Music Director of Graceview and is looking forward to an exciting music journey.
Church Secretary: Halyna Parypa
Halyna has vast experience in office administration having worked in many industries including manufacturing, hotel/hospitality, food & beverage, marketing and printing. She also comes to us from Bloordale United Church and is extremely well qualified to manage Graceview’s affairs. She is fluent in English as well as Ukrainian and enjoys swimming, reading, gardening, crafting, and art.
Halyna’s office hours are Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday 9:30 am to 1:30 pm.